The stage is set for another chapter in one of rugby’s greatest rivalries, with England’s Karl Dickson appointed referee for the fourth and final Test between the Springboks and All Blacks in Baltimore, Maryland.
The two rugby giants will meet on Saturday, 12 September, with kick-off scheduled for 23:00 South African time.
And there is plenty riding on the result.
Springboks hold the advantage
South Africa head into the final Test with a 2-1 series lead after recovering from an opening defeat at Ellis Park.
The All Blacks claimed the first encounter before the Springboks responded with consecutive victories at Cape Town Stadium and FNB Stadium.
That leaves New Zealand needing a victory in Baltimore to level the series, while South Africa can seal the series with another win.
World Rugby has now confirmed the officials who will oversee the showdown.
Dickson will take charge in the middle, with fellow English officials Matthew Carley and Christophe Ridley serving as his assistants.
England’s Andrew Jackson will operate as TMO, while Italy’s Matteo Liperini has been appointed as the Foul Play Review Officer.
Dickson brings a mixed record for the Boks
South African supporters will know Dickson well enough by now — and his record when refereeing the Springboks is perfectly balanced.
The 44-year-old has officiated four previous South Africa Tests, with the Boks winning two and losing two.
South Africa recorded victories over Argentina in Gqeberha and Wales in Cardiff under Dickson.
However, defeats against Ireland in Durban and, more significantly, New Zealand in Auckland mean there is no shortage of intrigue surrounding his appointment.
Springboks’ record under Karl Dickson
| Date | Opponent | Result | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 21 Aug 2021 | Argentina | Won 29-10 | Gqeberha |
| 13 Jul 2024 | Ireland | Lost 25-24 | Durban |
| 23 Nov 2024 | Wales | Won 45-12 | Cardiff |
| 6 Sep 2025 | New Zealand | Lost 24-17 | Auckland |
That last defeat will certainly add another layer of interest when Dickson takes charge of Saturday’s blockbuster.
A series decider with everything on the line
With South Africa one victory away from claiming the series, the Springboks will be determined to finish the rivalry on a high.
For the All Blacks, meanwhile, Baltimore represents an opportunity to level the series and deny their biggest rivals another series victory.
The match will be broadcast live on SuperSport.
And with the series finely poised, every decision from the officials could come under intense scrutiny.
Will Karl Dickson prove lucky for the Springboks in Baltimore, or can the All Blacks force a series draw?
